Expats Move From S’pore To M’sia After 10 Years, Mainly For Lower Cost Of Living & Slower Pace Of Life

 The couple shared that they used to spend between S$250 and S$300 a week in Singapore, about twice of what they now spend in KL, which is about RM400 (S$128) to RM500 (S$160).

They also said that despite spending less, there is also a wider variety of items in their cart.

“You can buy 200 grams or even just 3 ringgit (S$0.96) worth of something. It reminds me of India,” said Sowmya.

It was unclear if the couple were earning the same salaries as when they were in Singapore.

That said, the couple acknowledged that Malaysia isn’t some flawless utopia, and that Singapore does better in several key areas, such as public transport, safety, and drinking water.

Unlike Kuala Lumpur, they could get around without a car in Singapore. Mothi also noted that women can walk alone at night with little concern.

In Malaysia, they said have had to be more cautious such as double-checking car locks and staying alert.

Since the move, they have also signed up for a water filtration subscription, something they didn’t need to do back in Singapore.

However, according to the couple, Malaysia offers, at least for right now, something Singapore doesn’t emphasise as much — a slower pace of life, a stronger sense of community, and a more family-oriented lifestyle.

“We feel more at home here,” they said, describing Malaysians as friendlier and more open to social interaction, with a culture that leans more towards gatherings, hosting and, getting to know your neighbours.